This spring I took a mini vacation down to Key West and discovered some of the amazing wildlife, nature, culture and (surprise!) vegan food in the Southernmost Paradise. One of the most memorable experiences was Fury's Dolphin Watch and Snorkel Tour, an intimate boating experience that emphasizes the importance of responsibly observing dolphins in their natural habitat. We kept a respectful distance, allowing these beautiful cetaceans to swim and play as if we weren't even there.

I didn't see any manatees but still had an amazing creature-filled trip. From the wild chickens that roam throughout the island to the dozens of cuddly cats at the Hemingway House, I was not disappointed.

The Ernest Hemingway House is one of the key historical landmarks of Key West, and is certainly a must-see. Constructed by Asa Tift in 1851, it became Hemingway's residence in 1931, where he wrote many of his works. The House features preserved rooms with charming architecture, Hemingway's separate writing studio, and of course, his polydactyl (six-toed) cats. 40-50 descendants of the original cat, Snow White, still roam the grounds, approach the visitors, or just nap in the shade.

​Elephant figures surround Hemingway's swimming pool, which is still the largest residential swimming pool in Key West.

One of my most pleasant findings in Key West was the variety of vegan (and otherwise healthy) food options in the area. Sugar Apple, an organic and vegan-friendly natural food store, is a perfect example. It has an amazing selection of food and bath products, as well as a delicious plant-based juice and sandwich bar.

Date & Thyme is another vegan-friendly spot with a small market and cafe inside. It resides in a converted gas station with lovely outdoor seating. Several roosters and hens make regular visits to this spot!

Black Bean Burger with Chips and Slaw

The Cafe quickly became my favorite eatery of the trip, and warranted multiple return visits. They have a vegetable-focused pescatarian menu with many vegan options, including their Vegan Key Lime Cheesecake (the ONLY vegan key lime pie in Key West). I loved the Grilled Tofu Benedict and Spinach Gyoza Dumplings in particular, along with the divine Watermelon Cucumber Lime Juice. I definitely recommend stopping by if you should find yourself in town!

I took some amazing vegan desserts from The Cafe home for Easter "Brunch". Everything was so good, including their superbly oversized Chocolate Chip Cookie.